The town of Fort Myers Beach rests peacefully on a barrier island located just south of Fort Myers, Fla., and presents visitors with a myriad of excellent excursions and attractions. The island boasts a rich history that dates back more than 2,000 years when the Calusa Native American tribe first began to construct shell mounds along the bayside of the isle. The Calusa Nation resisted the earliest Spanish colonization efforts throughout the 16th century, but later succumbed to rising hostilities, disease and political upheavals brought on by European settlers 150 years after their arrival. Development on the island was a slow-going effort, and the town itself was not incorporated until the mid-1990s.

Today, the town has become a popular tourist destination for travelers interested in spending their leisure time in the sub-tropical climate of southern Florida. Visitors to the region should expect to encounter lavishly warm conditions with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Pack light, with plenty of shorts, a pair of sandals, sunglasses and a few bottles of sunscreen to take full advantage of the pleasant weather enjoyed by this beachfront community.

Outdoor Adventures

Bordering the vast waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the town of Fort Myers Beach presents a wide array of outdoor excursions that allow guests to take in the breathtaking natural landscape of southern Florida. Oceanic outings and exquisite natural sanctuaries abound on this barrier island and the surrounding region, and all who venture to the area are sure to be enveloped by its unique features.

Captain Tony's Fishing Adventures This family-owned and operated outfit offers a great selection of full-day, half-day and nighttime fishing trips that allow patrons to reel in a variety of aquatic specimens native to the Gulf. Climb aboard Captain Tony's "Great Getaway," a 90-foot Coast Guard-certified vessel complete with an air-conditioned lounge, restrooms and a sundeck, and traverse the ocean waves in search of the area's best fishing spots. Your fare will include rods, reels, bait, tackle and fishing licenses, making this a perfect trip for first-time fisherman and master anglers alike. Snapper, grunts, tomtates, porgies, triggerfish, sharks (during summer months) and grouper are all abundant in these coastal waters, and the experienced staff will ensure you're fit to catch'em all.

Everglades Adventures Take a tour of Florida's extensive wetlands to learn about the natural habitats, wildlife and plant specimens that occupy this vast expanse. Your adventure will begin in Fort Myer's Beach, were you'll be transported out into the wilderness of the Everglades. From there, hop on an airboat and meander through winding tributaries, where you'll see first-hand the delicate balance of the area's ecosystem. Alligators, turtles and other reptilian species can be seen from the comfort of your vessel, and bolder travelers will actually be able to handle some of these creatures during a certain portion of the excursion. Other tours allow guests the opportunity to explore the scenic mangrove estuary of Estero Bay. These waters are home to dolphins, manatees and a variety of avian species, as well as a number of exotic plants, towering trees and vibrant blossoms.

Kayak Excursions Located in nearby Fort Myers, this fine establishment offers visitors the opportunity to rent small paddle boats for a minimal fee to explore Lee County's coastal waters. Guided tours are available, where an experienced staff member will navigate you to some of the most beautiful natural sanctuaries in the region. Kayak Excursions offers free delivery service, allowing patrons to choose a location of interest instead of forcing them into predetermined areas close to the store.

Artistic and Cultural Experiences

Fort Myers Beach boasts a thriving art scene and a number of culturally significant locations that are sure to spark the interests of travelers. Grant yourself a feast for the eyes in some of the area's pristine gallery spaces, or explore the centuries-old ruins of Native American structures spread out across the island.

Alliance for the Arts Galleries Art enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the galleries operated by Lee County's Alliance for the Arts. A vast array of exhibits are frequently shuffling through this establishment that depict subject matter ranging from landscapes and portraits to huge installation pieces and sculptural elements. You'll be able to gaze upon work provided by some of the area's most prominent artists who've taken the time to masterfully craft a wide selection of vivid and breathtaking pieces using a variety of different mediums. Concerts, theatrical performances and free yoga classes are all offered to patrons who make this stop a priority.

The Mound House If you're interested in an educational activity, the Mound House provides a detailed history of the region and its earliest inhabitants. The site rests on an ancient Calusa Indian Mound and provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the island's oldest structures. Visitors are encouraged to pack a lunch and picnic on the facility's expansive grounds to better view the breathtaking natural scenery of Florida's western coastline.

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